Organic Lobelia Herb Extract
Also known as: Lobelia, Lobelia Herb Extract, Indian Tobacco, Asthma Weed, Puke Weed, Lobelia inflata
Overview
Lobelia inflata, commonly known as Lobelia or Indian Tobacco, is a plant containing lobeline, a piperidine alkaloid. Historically, it has been used for various purposes, including respiratory conditions, smoking cessation, and as an emetic. However, modern clinical evidence supporting these traditional uses is limited. Lobelia's purported benefits stem from lobeline's potential to modulate dopamine release, which theoretically could impact respiratory drive and addiction. It is available in various forms, including dried herbs, extracts, and tinctures. Due to safety concerns and the availability of more effective alternatives, Lobelia is banned in some countries. The plant is native to North America and can be found in fields and along roadsides.
Benefits
The primary claim associated with Lobelia is smoking cessation, but evidence from a Cochrane review indicates no significant benefit over placebo (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.78–1.33). These trials were generally of low quality, with inadequate blinding and small sample sizes. One RCT found lobeline to have lower abstinence rates compared to nicotine gum (8.1% vs. 15.9%, p=0.04). Preclinical data suggests potential modulation of dopamine release, which could theoretically benefit respiratory drive, but there is no clinical evidence to support its use for asthma or COPD. Overall, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of Lobelia for any therapeutic benefit.
How it works
Lobelia's mechanism of action is primarily attributed to lobeline, an alkaloid that can modulate dopamine release in the brain. This modulation is thought to influence respiratory drive and potentially impact addiction pathways. Preclinical studies suggest that lobeline interacts with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, affecting dopamine neurotransmission. However, the exact pathways and interactions within the body are not fully understood, and the effects observed in animal models may not translate directly to humans.
Side effects
High doses of Lobelia (>500 mg) can cause significant adverse effects, including nausea, vomiting, and hypotension. There is a theoretical risk of interactions with antidepressants due to potential MAOI-like effects. Due to these safety concerns, Lobelia is banned in some countries, such as Australia. The FDA has issued warnings regarding the toxicity of Lobelia. It is crucial to adhere to recommended dosages and to consult with a healthcare professional before using Lobelia, especially if taking other medications or having pre-existing health conditions. Overdose can lead to severe respiratory distress and even death.
Dosage
Due to the limited evidence and potential for adverse effects, there is no widely accepted standard dosage for Lobelia. Historically, small doses of the dried herb were used, but these are not well-defined in modern clinical practice. Given the risk of toxicity, it is generally recommended to avoid using Lobelia without professional guidance. If used, dosages should be very low and carefully monitored. It is important to note that the concentration of lobeline can vary significantly between different Lobelia products, making it difficult to determine a safe and effective dose. There is no established upper limit, but exceeding 500mg is considered dangerous.
FAQs
Can Lobelia help me quit smoking?
Current evidence does not support the use of Lobelia for smoking cessation. Studies have shown no significant benefit over placebo, and some trials indicate it may be less effective than nicotine replacement therapies.
Is Lobelia safe to use?
Lobelia can cause significant side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and hypotension, especially at higher doses. It is banned in some countries due to safety concerns. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
What are the symptoms of Lobelia overdose?
Symptoms of Lobelia overdose include nausea, vomiting, sweating, tremors, rapid heartbeat, and potentially severe respiratory distress. Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
Can Lobelia help with asthma or other respiratory problems?
While traditionally used for respiratory issues, there is no strong clinical evidence to support the use of Lobelia for asthma or COPD. Preclinical data suggests potential mechanisms, but human trials are lacking.
Research Sources
- https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD000146/full – This Cochrane review analyzed 7 RCTs and found that lobeline showed no significant benefit over placebo for smoking cessation. The review highlighted that the trials were of low quality due to inadequate blinding and small sample sizes. The authors concluded that there was insufficient evidence to support the use of lobeline for smoking cessation.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1360-0443.1999.911115.x – This double-blind RCT compared lobeline to nicotine gum for smoking cessation and found that the lobeline group had lower abstinence rates at 12 weeks. The study indicated that lobeline was less effective than nicotine gum in helping individuals quit smoking. The lack of a placebo arm and the non-standardized lobeline dosage were noted as limitations.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11750847/ – This preclinical study explored the mechanistic effects of lobeline on dopamine release. The findings suggested that lobeline modulates dopamine release, which could theoretically have benefits for respiratory drive. However, the study was conducted using animal models, and the results have not been confirmed in human clinical trials.
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